2007 MVAL Football Preview
Antietam Conference
Inside the Antietam Conference
MVAL Conference Ranking: 4th
Possible Playoff Teams: 2 (Catoctin should be there, Smithsburg is a possibility)
Game of the Year: Catoctin at Smithsburg, Friday, October 26 (likely the league title game)
Best Non-Conference Games: Catoctin vs. Mountain Ridge, Friday, September 14 and Smithsburg at Winters Mill.
Best Offense: Catoctin (A double-wing offense led by Doyle will be tough to stop)
Best Defense: Catoctin (Seven returning starters will lead the Cougars)
Best Offensive Player: QB-D.J. Doyle-Sr.-Catoctin
Best Defensive Player: LB-Kyle Cunningham-Sr.-Williamsport
Best Home Field Advantage: Boonsboro (A tough place to win with loyal & rowdy fans)
Best Tradition: Smithsburg (With five state titles, it’s hard to argue)
Best Coach: Clayton Anders-Boonsboro (Continues to get the most out of his teams)
Team on the Rise: Williamsport (Look for the Cats to improve on a 2-8 record)
Best Uniforms: Catoctin
Antietam Conference Pre-Season Players to Watch
QB/DB-D.J. Doyle-Sr.-Catoctin
QB-Brian Faulders-Sr.-Smithsburg
FB/LB-Ryan McLean-Sr.-Boonsboro
LB/FB-Kyle Cunningham-Sr.-Williamsport
RB-Sean Chilson-Jr.-Catoctin
DB/RB-Kyle McDannell-Sr.-Williamsport
WR/DB-Kevin Kocsis-Sr.-Smithsburg
DB-Andrew Simpson-Sr.-Brunswick
OL/DL-Jake Fields-Jr.-Catoctin
OL/DL-Kyle Vaughn-Jr.-Catoctin
OL/DL-Steve Whitt-Sr.-Smithsburg
RB/LB-Jesse Jarvis-Sr.-Clear Spring
RB/CB-Mike Minch-Sr.-Brunswick
RB/LB-Andrew Griffith-Sr.-Boonsboro
DL-Dan Rishel-Sr.-Smithsburg
LB-Justin Ridenour-Sr.-Catoctin
LB-Josh Munday-Sr.-Catoctin
Predictions
1. Catoctin
Last Season: (7-4, 5-2, 3rd)
Head Coach: Doug Williams (72-92, 17th season)
Base Offense: Double Wing
Base Defense: 4-4
Offensive Returning Starters: 5
Defensive Returning Starters: 7
Toughest Game: South Carroll
Impact Player: QB/DB-D.J. Doyle-Sr.
Toughest Game:
Outlook: Catoctin is seeking their first league title since 1983---and with the weapons they have returning, the Cougars should be in good shape to walk away with the 2007 conference championship. D.J. Doyle is one of the best athletes in the entire MVAL and would start for anybody. Doyle will be the signal-caller for Catoctin’s double-wing offense. He (Doyle) will have two solid offensive linemen in front of him in juniors Kyle Vaughn and Jake Fields, while having Sean Chilson and Kyle Sanders to hand the ball to. The defense will have to improve for the Cougars to make a playoff run. Catoctin can score points, but they need much better defensive play to be playing after week ten.
2. Smithsburg
Last Season: (5-5, 3-4, T-5th)
Head Coach: Buddy Orndorff (39-59, 11th season)
Base Offense: Multiple I
Base Defense: 4-4
Offensive Returning Starters: N/A
Defensive Returning Starters: N/A
Toughest Game: Winters Mill
Impact Player: WR/DB-Kevin Kocsis-Sr.
Outlook: The Leopards have gone 48-75 (.390) since their last state championship season in 1994. Head Coach Buddy Orndorff had tough job following legendary head coach Carroll Reid. But in 2003 and 2004, Orndorff returned Smithsburg to the playoffs and has the Leopards primed for another playoff run this season. The Leopards return QB-Brian Faulders-Sr. who threw for 613 yards and 10 TD’s in 2006. Receiver Kevin Kocsis-Sr., (25-400, 2 TD’s) who led the conference in receptions, FB-Bobby Smith (506 yds, 6 TD’s), and OL-Steve Whitt-Sr also returns. DB-Kocsis (2 INT’s) and DL-Dan Rishel-Sr. will anchor the defense. If Smithsburg can get off to a good start, they should be in the mix in the very tough 1A West race.
3. Boonsboro
Last Season: (8-3, 6-1, 1st)
Head Coach: Clayton Anders (128-102, 23rd season)
Base Offense: Wing-T
Base Defense: 3-5
Offensive Returning Starters: 3
Defensive Returning Starters: 0
Toughest Game: Francis Scott Key
Impact Player: RB/LB-Ryan McLean-Sr.
Outlook: The Warriors come into the 2007 season as the two-time defending Antietam Conference Champions. Last season few expected Boonsboro to repeat, but they did. So this season after losing every defensive starter and all but three offensive starters, few expect much this year. The 2007 Warriors will try one more time to prove everyone wrong. FB-Ryan McLean-Sr. will highlight the returning players. He rushed for 885 yards and 7 touchdowns last season.
4. Williamsport
Last Season: (2-8, 1-6, 6th)
Head Coach: Adrian Custer (8-32, 5th season)
Base Offense: Double Wing
Base Defense: 5-3
Offensive Returning Starters: 7
Defensive Returning Starters: 6
Toughest Game: South Carroll
Impact Player: FB/LB-Kyle Cunningham-Sr.
Outlook: Williamsport comes into another season with high hopes. Last season the Cats were picked to finish in the top half of the league, but stumbled to a 2-8 season. A talented senior class and a few newcomers look to change the past and propel the Wildcats to a successful campaign. Senior linebacker Kyle Cunningham is likely the best defensive player in the conference.
5. Brunswick
Last Season: (5-5, 3-4, T-5th)
Head Coach: Kevin Lynott (23-20, 5th season)
Base Offense: Double Wing
Base Defense: 4-4
Offensive Returning Starters: N/A
Defensive Returning Starters: N/A
Toughest Game: Middletown
Impact Player: DB-Andrew Simpson-Sr.
Outlook: Except for 2005 playoff season, the Railroaders have hovered around the .500 mark for the past six seasons. This season that may be an accomplishment after losing several keys players from last season’s squad. Back are DB-Andrew Simpson-Sr., RB/CB-Mike Minch-Sr., and QB-Brett Hartle to lead the ‘Roaders.
6. Clear Spring
Last Season: (1-9, 0-7, 7th)
Head Coach: Craig Bathgate (first season)
Base Offense: Multiple I
Base Defense: 50
Offensive Returning Starters: 4
Defensive Returning Starters: 4
Toughest Game: Catoctin
Impact Player: RB/LB-Jesse Jarvis-Sr.
Outlook: The Blazers are looking to go into a new direction this season. Clear Spring hired former North Hagerstown defensive coordinator Craig Bathgate to take over a struggling program still in its infancy. The Blazers have only won two games since their first season in 2004. This season Bathgate will look to instill more discipline, a new attitude, and increase the number of players in the program. If he can do that, the Blazers will be much more competitive.
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Chesapeake Conference
Inside the Chesapeake Conference
MVAL Conference Ranking: 1st
Possible Playoff Teams: 3 (Linganore and Urbana are virtual locks, but look for TJ to remain in the mix)
Game of the Year: Urbana at Linganore, Saturday, November 10
Best Non-Conference Games: Urbana at Gwynn Park, October 20; Martinsburg-WV at Urbana, Friday, September 14; Middletown at Linganore, October 5; Mt.St.Josephs at Thomas Johnson, Friday, September 14.
Best Offense: North Carroll (This is not a joke, the Panthers return numerous talented starters)
Best Defense: Linganore (Cox and Metz will lead Rick Connor’s defense)
Best Offensive Player: WR-C.J. Thomas-Sr.-Linganore
Best Defensive Player: LB-Todd Cox-Sr.-Linganore
Best Home Field Advantage: Urbana & Linganore (both places are tough to win at)
Best Tradition: Urbana & Linganore (both have multiple state titles and lots of tradition)
Best Coach: Rick Connor (Three straight league title and the last MVAL coach to win a state championship)
Team on the Rise: North Carroll (Could have best finish in years)
Best Uniforms: Linganore
Pre-Season Players to Watch
LB/FB-Todd Cox-Sr.-Linganore
WR/DB-C.J. Thomas-Sr.-Linganore
S-Chris Patton-Sr.-Urbana
OL/DL-Erik Saylor-Sr.-Urbana
QB-Stefan Mitchell-Sr.-North Carroll
RB-Jeremy Ritz-Sr.-North Carroll
WR-Phil Sheppard-Sr.-North Carroll
TE/DT-Steve Chase-Sr.-Thomas Johnson
RB/FS-Corey Hunt-Sr.-Thomas Johnson
RB/CB-D.J. Scott-Jr.-Thomas Johnson
LB-Canaan Metz-Jr.-Linganore
QB-Alex Phelps-Sr.-Linganore
LB-Billy Stup-Sr.-Tuscarora
DB-Ryan Cranford-Sr.-Tuscarora
RB-Jesse Astlin-Sr.-Westminster
DL-Kawaan Tucker-Sr.-Westminster
OL/LB-Brett Baer-Jr.-Westminster
K-Alex Eckard-Soph.-Linganore
DE-Randall Ott-Sr.-Urbana
Predictions
1. Linganore
Last Season: (8-2, 6-0, 1st)
Head Coach: Rick Connor (36-10, 5th season; 45-32 overall)
Base Offense: Multiple I
Base Defense: 3-4
Offensive Returning Starters: 3
Defensive Returning Starters: 2
Toughest Game: Urbana
Impact Players: WR-C.J. Thomas-Sr.; LB-Todd Cox-Sr.
Outlook: Linganore is the last MVAL team to win a state championship, doing so in 2003. The Lancers have the playmakers to make another run, but losing 17 starters from last season will be a challenge. Linganore has the best offensive threat (WR-C.J. Thomas) as well as the best defensive player (LB-Todd Cox) in the MVAL returning. That’s why they are the early favorite to win their fourth straight Chesapeake title. Senior Alex Phelps will assume the quarterbacking duties, while Mike Rich and Ryan Davis will lead the o-line. Cox will also see time on offense, playing fullback. Junior LB-Canaan Metz will join Cox to lead a defense that will likely be one of the toughest in the entire league. A competitive schedule looms, but Coach Rick Connor is cautious about this season because of replacing so many starters. With the playmakers the Lancers have---a Chesapeake Championship four-peat and a long playoff run is very likely.
2. Urbana
Last Season: (9-4, 4-2, 3rd)
Head Coach: Joe Polce (18-6, 3rd season)
Base Offense: Pro I
Base Defense: 50
Offensive Returning Starters: 2
Defensive Returning Starters: 3
Toughest Game: Gwynn Park
Impact Players: OL/DL-Erik Saylor-Sr.; RB/DB-Chris Patton-Sr.
Outlook: The Hawks will be very young this season. Urbana graduated 32 seniors from last year’s 2006 3A West Region Championship team. In 2007 Urbana will face the toughest schedule of any public school in Maryland. The Hawks have averaged 9.7 wins a season since 1997, so for that to continue, the newcomers will have to grow up fast.
3. Thomas Johnson
Last Season: (9-2, 5-1, 2nd)
Head Coach: Ben Wright (127-92, 22nd season)
Base Offense: Multiple
Base Defense: 50
Offensive Returning Starters: 4
Defensive Returning Starters: 4
Toughest Game: Linganore
Impact Players: RB/LB-Nick Forbes-So.; RB/DB-D.J. Scott-Jr.
Outlook: The Pats lost all-state running back Terrence Kerns from last year’s squad, but that didn’t hurt as much as losing QB Dustin Muse, who passed away in a car accident after the season. TJ players will not forget Muse and would love to make the playoffs in his honor. The Patriots have what it takes to reach the postseason. The offensive line will be a strong point and look for several talented sophomores to contribute right away.
4. North Carroll
Last Season: (4-6, 2-4, 5th)
Head Coach: Jeff Oeming (14-16, 3rd season overall)
Base Offense: Spread
Base Defense: 4-4
Offensive Returning Starters: 6
Defensive Returning Starters: 4
Toughest Game: Linganore
Impact Players: QB-Stefan Mitchell-Sr.
Outlook: North Carroll could be the surprise team in the MVAL this season. With only two winning seasons in the past 30 years, the Panthers are due for a solid season. Head Coach Jeff Oeming has the Panthers on the move upward with several key players returning. Senior QB Stefan Mitchell will lead NC’s spread offense that will have some weapons. If the Panthers find some defense, they may go places they haven’t been in a long time.
5. Westminster
Last Season: (4-6, 1-5, 6th)
Head Coach: Brad Wilson (21-13, 4th season)
Base Offense: Spread
Base Defense: 46
Offensive Returning Starters: 6
Defensive Returning Starters: 6
Toughest Game: Linganore
Impact Players: RB-Jesse Atlin-Sr. DL-Kawaan Tucker-Sr.
Outlook: The Owls return 12 starters from last season’s 4-6 team. That sub-.500 record didn’t sit well with Head Coach Brad Wilson, as he will be looking to return Westminster to the 2005 standard of playing in the postseason. If the Owls offense can put points on the board like ’05, Westminster will be able to play with anybody, including anyone in the powerful Chesapeake Conference.
6. Tuscarora
Last Season: (4-6, 0-6, 7th)
Head Coach: Shawn Carey (10-20, 4th season)
Base Offense: Multiple
Base Defense: 5-2
Offensive Returning Starters: 3
Defensive Returning Starters: 5
Toughest Game: Linganore
Impact Players: LB/TE-Billy Stup-Sr.; S-Ryan Cranford-Sr.
Outlook: Tuscarora will be young, but they have some talent and team speed. Coach Carey said his team has worked as hard as he’s seen them in four years at the school and is anxious to see what happens this season. The Titans were 4-0 out of conference and 0-6 in the Chesapeake last season. That will have to change for Tuscarora to have a winning campaign.
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Piedmont Conference
Inside the Piedmont Conference
MVAL Conference Ranking: 2nd
Possible Playoff Teams: 2-3 (Middletown, North Hagerstown will definitely be in the thick of the 2A West race, while Frederick could sneak into the 3A mix)
Game of the Year: Middletown at North Hagerstown, Friday, October 12
Best Non-Conference Games: Middletown at Linganore, Friday October 5; Heritage-VA at North Hagerstown, September 7; Allegany at North Hagerstown, Friday September 14. Frederick at Urbana, Friday, September 28.
Best Offense: North Hagerstown (Year in and year out the Hubs are an offensive juggernaut)
Best Defense: Middletown (Scoring on the Knights is always difficult)
Best Offensive Players: RB’s-Diez Johnson & Justin Donaldson-North Hagerstown
Best Defensive Player: DL-Adam Crown-Sr.-Middletown
Best Home Field Advantage: Middletown (This has always been one of the toughest places to record a win)
Best Tradition: Middletown (No team in the MVAL has as many league titles as the Knights)
Best Coaches: Danny Cunningham-North Hagerstown (Has turned a down program into a yearly playoff contender) & Lorne Ridenour-Middletown (Took over for legendary Tim Amborse and hasn’t missed a beat, going 20-5 with two league & a region title)
Team on the Rise: Walkersville (look for the Lions to improve on last season’s 4-6 mark)
Best Uniforms: Middletown (The all black look suits an already intimidating team)
Pre-Season Players to Watch
RB/LB-Diez Johnson-Sr.-North Hagerstown
OL/DL-Adam Crown-Sr.-Middletown
RB-Justin Donaldson-Sr.-North Hagerstown
LB-Alex Cornish-Sr.-Frederick
DB/WR-Matt Albaugh-Sr.-Walkersville
LB-John Moser-Jr.-South Hagerstown
WR/LB-Mike McMillan-Sr.-North Hagerstown
DB-D.J. Watkins-Sr.-Walkersville
OL/DL-Kyle Malcolm-Sr.-North Hagerstown
QB-Rob Michaels-Jr.-Middletown
RB-Josh Jackson-Jr.-Frederick
WR-Pat Riley-Sr.-Walkersville
QB-Andre April-Sr.-Frederick
FB/DL-Demetrius Myers-Jr.-North Hagerstown
DB-Jake Guilen-Sr.-Frederick
TE-Ethan Senn-Sr.-Walkersville
RB-Eric Phillips-Sr.-South Hagerstown
DE/TE-Buddy Brashears-Sr.-Middletown
SB/DB-Alec Nelson-Jr.-North Hagerstown
Predictions
1. Middletown
Last Season: (10-2, 6-0, 1st)
Head Coach: Lorne Ridenour (20-5, 3rd season)
Base Offense: Pro
Base Defense: 50
Offensive Returning Starters: 0
Defensive Returning Starters: 2
Toughest Game: Linganore
Impact Player: OL/DL-Adam Crown-Sr.
Outlook: Coach Lorne Ridenour thinks his team has a lot of potential this year even though they will be fairly young and inexperienced. Ridenour said, “Our guys have worked very hard in the off season and our numbers have increased substantially from 46 in 2006 to 66 in 2007. If we continue to have positive, team oriented attitudes and are willing to put forth the effort, 2007 could be another exciting season for the Knights”. Middletown returns only 2 defensive starters, while having to replace all 11 on offense. Traditionally the Knights run a football factory, so having a limited number of returning starters is never an issue---that’s why it’s hard to pick against Middletown in any year.
2. North Hagerstown
Last Season: (8-4, 6-1, T-1st)
Head Coach: Danny Cunningham (39-26, 7th season)
Base Offense: Multiple I
Base Defense: 3-3 stack
Offensive Returning Starters: 4
Defensive Returning Starters: 4
Toughest Game: Allegany
Impact Players: WR/LB-Mike McMillan-Sr.; RB/LB-Diez Johnson-Sr.; RB/LB-Justin Donaldson-Sr.
Outlook: Since the expansion of the MVAL, North Hagerstown has dominated the Antietam Conference. The Hubs now move from the small school Antietam into the Piedmont, comprised of 2A & 3A schools. The North roster is loaded with as many solid athletes as anyone in the MVAL. Coach Dan Cunningham will have several options with WR/LB-Mike McMillan, RB/LB-Diez Johnson, RB/LB-Justin Donaldson, QB/DB-James Brunson, FB/DL-Demetrius Myers, and SB/DB-Alec Nelson. The Hubs will need all the athletes they can field with a beefed up schedule that includes non-conference foes Heritage-VA, Allegany, Musselman-WV, and Winters Mill. If the Hubs athletes can produce, look for North to be playing late in November for the fourth time in five seasons. It also won’t hurt having a home field advantage for the first time in 50 years.
3. Frederick
Last Season: (3-7, 2-4, 5th)
Head Coach: Vince Ahearn
Base Offense: Spread Gun
Base Defense: 3-3 stack
Offensive Returning Starters: 7
Defensive Returning Starters: 6
Toughest Game: Urbana
Impact Players: LB-Alex Cornish-Sr.
Outlook: The Cadets return 13 starters from last season---and may have been one of the best 3-7 teams in the state. This season the Cadets look to turn their record around and make another run for the playoffs. That won’t be easy as they have six playoff teams from last year are on their 2007 schedule and return to Class 3A. Frederick does have solid talent returning, including QB-Andre April, LB-Alex Cornish, LB-Todd Sharf, WR-Brent DeHaven, and RB-Josh Jackson. With the Cadets returning more starters than anyone in the Piedmont---they could be in the league title hunt until the end.
4. Walkersville
Last Season: (4-6, 3-3, 4th)
Head Coach: Ryan Hines (5-15, 3rd season)
Base Offense: Pro-I
Base Defense: 4-4
Offensive Returning Starters: 5
Defensive Returning Starters: 4
Toughest Game: Middletown
Impact Player: WR/DB-Matt Albaugh-Sr.
Outlook: Walkersville is hoping to follow the trend of the last two years---adding 3 wins per season. The 2007 Lions are striving for a playoff berth, but face four teams that made the postseason last year. The return of QB-Zach Powell and RB-Keith Brown should add a spark to a new look offense, while strong returners WR-Patrick Riley and OL-Billy Rittelmeyer also will help. Head Coach Ryan Hines added former Seneca Valley Head Coach Terry Changuris to the staff to run the offense. The Defense will be led by a strong secondary that includes Matt Albaugh and D.J. Watkins. Tyler White and Jordan Dixon will also be key additions to this year's defense.
5. South Hagerstown
Last Season: (4-6, 4-3, 4th)
Head Coach: Greg Kellick (75-104, 19th season)
Base Offense: Spread
Base Defense: 53
Offensive Returning Starters: N/A
Defensive Returning Starters: N/A
Toughest Game: Linganore
Impact Players: LB-John Moser-Jr.; RB-Eric Phillips-Sr.
Outlook: The Rebels move into the Piedmont after four years in the Antietam. During their stay in the small-school Antietam, South went 11-16 in league play and 13-27 overall. That will have to change this season for the Rebels to have a successful campaign. South Hagerstown Head Coach Greg Kellick will enter his 19th season at the helm and is ready for the challenge of the new league. Kellick will rely on junior linebacker John Moser on defense and senior running back Eric Phillips on offense to get the job done.
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Blue Ridge Conference
Inside the Blue Ridge Conference
MVAL Conference Ranking: 3rd
Possible Playoff Teams: 2-3 (FSK and Winters Mill should be in the mix all season with South Carroll also threatening for a spot in 2A West)
Game of the Year: Winters Mill at Francis Scott Key, Friday, November 9.
Best Non-Conference Games: Thomas Johnson at FSK, Friday, September 21; South Carroll at North Carroll, Friday, September 21; FSK at Linganore, Friday, November 2.
Best Offense: Francis Scott Key (Martz led Key last season, look for the same this year)
Best Defense: Winters Mill (Braun will again lead the Falcons solid defense)
Best Offensive Player: QB-Colton Weaver-Sr.-Liberty (2099 passing yds, 17 TD’s in 2006)
Best Defensive Player: DL-Jeff Braun-Sr.-Winters Mill (headed to WVU)
Best Home Field Advantage: Francis Scott Key (FSK is tough to beat on their own turf)
Best Tradition: South Carroll (2 regional championships since 2003)
Best Coaches: Ken Johnson-Winters Mill (has taken a new program and turned it into a yearly playoff contender in just two years)
Team on the Rise: South Carroll (The Cavs have been up & down for the last four seasons, 2007 will be an up year)
Best Uniforms: South Carroll
Pre-Season Players to Watch
DL/OL-Jeff Braun-Sr.-Winters Mill
OL/DL-John Bassler-Sr.-Francis Scott Key
QB-Colton Weaver-Sr.-Liberty
RB-Brad Martz-Sr.-Francis Scott Key
WR-Jesse Meetre-Sr.-South Carroll
LB-Trevor Terpening-Sr.-South Carroll
RB-Tyler Bridges-Jr.-Francis Scott Key
RB-Kevin Jones-Sr.-Winters Mill
TE-Trenton Joseph-Jr.-Liberty
DL-Mike Knox-Sr.-Liberty
RB-Greg Tellish-Sr.-South Carroll
QB-Andy Stambaugh-Sr.-Francis Scott Key
WR/DB-Luke Wright-Jr.-Century
RB-Zach Wolfe-Sr.-Winters Mill
Predictions
1. Francis Scott Key
Last Season: (7-4, 4-2, T-2nd)
Head Coach: Bill Hyson (7-4, 2nd season)
Base Offense: Double Wing
Base Defense: 4-4
Toughest Game: Linganore
Offensive Returning Starters: N/A
Defensive Returning Starters: N/A
Impact Players: RB-Brad Martz-Sr.; OL/DL-John Bassler-Sr.
Outlook: FSK was once the doormat of the MVAL. Before 2000, they finished near the bottom of the league virtually every season. But since, they have been one of the premier programs in Carroll County and the MVAL. The Eagles are now a perennial playoff contender and can play with anybody. However, last season ended sour for FSK after a promising 6-1 start. The Eagles lost three of their last four games, including getting ousted 27-7 at home in the playoffs. This season Key is looks to rebound from last year’s bad conclusion. Running back and leading scorer Brad Martz returns (15 TD’s), along with West Virginia recruit OL/DL-John Bassler. Both should help Bill Hyson’s Eagles lead the way in the newly formed Blue Ridge Conference.
2. Winters Mill
Last Season: (6-5, 4-2, T-2nd)
Head Coach: Ken Johnson (16-26, 5th season)
Base Offense: Spread
Base Defense: 50
Toughest Game: Francis Scott Key
Offensive Returning Starters: 6
Defensive Returning Starters: 5
Impact Players: DL-Jeff Braun-Sr.
Outlook: Coach Ken Johnson has quickly turned a program that wasn’t around six years ago, into a team that already has back-to-back playoff appearances under their belt. Now qualifying for the playoffs won’t be enough. The Falcons are hungry for playoff victories. Johnson & the Falcons do return one of Maryland’s strongest & best lineman in West Virginia recruit Jeff Braun. Offensively, Zach Wolfe and Kevin Jones will run behind Braun, while the quarterback position is up for grabs. The defense has been the Falcons strong point and look for that to continue in 2007 with Braun anchoring the d-line. If Winters Mill can defeat FSK, they could be the Blue Ridge top dog.
3. South Carroll
Last Season: (3-7, 2-4, T-5th)
Head Coach: Greg Mihalko (3-7, 2nd season)
Base Offense: Run & Shoot
Base Defense: 4-3
Toughest Game: North Carroll
Offensive Returning Starters: 5
Defensive Returning Starters: 7
Impact Players: WR-Jesse Meetre-Sr.; LB-Trevor Terpening-Sr.
Outlook: South Carroll looks to rebound from their disappointing 3-7 season in 2006. The Cavaliers return many skilled players on both sides of the ball and hope to gain a lot of positive production from their juniors who went undefeated as sophomores. For improvement to occur the Cavs look to play more consistent and fundamental on both sides of the ball and to limit turnovers to help produce a winning season.
4. Century
Last Season: (5-5, 3-3, 4th)
Head Coach: Tony Shermeyer (6-14, 3rd season)
Base Offense: N/A
Base Defense: N/A
Offensive Returning Starters: N/A
Defensive Returning Starters: N/A
Toughest Game: Middletown
Impact Player: WR/DB-Luke Wright-Jr.
Outlook: The 2006 Century Knights finished at 5-5. Head Coach Tony Shermeyer did a fantastic job turning a team that was predicted to finish at the bottom of the ultra-strong Chesapeake Conference, into a .500 team that was competitive with everyone. This season the Knights move out of the Chesapeake and into the more suitable newly formed Blue Ridge Conference. Shermeyer will have another big task in front of him as several key players, including Ryan Pentz have graduated. If Shermeyer can get the 2007 Knights to play like last season’s squad, Century could make noise in the Blue Ridge.
5. Liberty
Last Season: (0-10, 0-6, 6th)
Head Coach: Jeff Kent (0-10, 2nd season)
Base Offense: Spread
Base Defense: 5-2
Offensive Returning Starters: 7
Defensive Returning Starters: 5
Toughest Game: Middletown
Impact Player: QB-Colton Weaver-Sr.
Outlook: The Lions didn’t win a single game last season and only had two wins in 2005. This season second year Head Coach Jeff Kent is looking to turn things around. Kent will have possibly the best passing quarterback in the MVAL on his side---third-year starter Colton Weaver. Liberty’s senior signal caller threw for over 2000 yards and 17 TD’s last season, and looks to improve on those numbers this year. Coach Kent said, “I am excited about stepping on the field with these guys. They bring a lot of enthusiasm and competitiveness to the field.” With Weaver, the Lions will likely put up plenty of points. However the defense will have to vastly improve for Liberty to make a move in the conference.
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Tuscarora’s Brian Kidd (left) gets caught by Frederick’s Travis Bowie.
photo by: tom fedor⁄the gazette
WEEK #1
South Carroll 26, Williamsport 6
Winters Mill 13, Walkersville 7
Baltimore Lutheran 21, Clear Spring 0
Linganore 42, Lake Clifton 6
Urbana 12, Lackey 0
Thomas Johnson 38, Northeast AA 0
Severn 18, Catoctin 14
Poolesville 20, Brunswick 16
North Carroll 32, Joppatowne 17
Heritage-VA 26, North Hagerstown 20
Century 35, South Hagerstown 20
Frederick 21, Tuscarora 0
Middletown 53, Liberty 36
Francis Scott Key 14, Westminster 9
Smithsburg 27, Northern Garrett 0
Moorefield-WV 14, Boonsboro 13
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WEEK #10
Boonsboro 25, Smithsburg 20
North Hagerstown 27, South Hagerstown 20
Middletown 38, Walkersville 7
Catoctin 15, Brunswick 12
South Carroll 13, Tuscarora 7
North Carroll 47, Westminster 7
Liberty 20, Century 6
Francis Scott Key 12, Winters Mill 6
Williamsport 33, Clear Spring 0
Thomas Johnson 31, Frederick 14
Urbana 20, Linganore 14
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Regional Playoff Semis
1A West
Allegany 49, Boonssboro 19
Fort Hill 45, Smithsburg 0
1A North
South Carroll 14, Chesapeake 8
Catoctin 43, Sparrows Point 6
2A West
Middletown 26, Liberty 21
3A West
Seneca Valley 27, Urbana 21
4A North
Thomas Johnson 21, Linganore 19
Perry Hall 28, North Carroll 21
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WEEK #2
Martinsburg-WV 13, Urbana 6
Middletown 35, Tuscarora 6
Bishop Walsh 44, Clear Springs 6
Linganore 49, Thomas Stone 15
Frederick 15, Winters Mill 14
Mountain Ridge 33, Catoctin 6
Smithsburg 42, Poolesville 7
North Carroll 21, Francis Scott Key 14
Westminster 13, South Carroll 12
Brunswick 14, Liberty 13
Century 22, Walkersville 7
Northern Garrett 12, Williamsport 0
Boonsboro 52, Southern Garrett 14
Allegany 42, North Hagerstown 7
Berkeley Springs-WV 56, South Hagerstown 22
Thomas Johnson 21, Mount St Josephs 12
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WEEK #3
North Carroll 36, South Carroll 8
Smithsburg 38, Winters Mill 30
Linganore 58, South Hagerstown 7
Williamsport 41, Baltimore Lutheran 0
Hancock 18, Clear Spring 0
Boonsboro 42, Poolesville 21
Urbana 13, Jefferson-WV 12
Middletown 40, Brunswick 14
Frederick 39, Century 7
Walkersville 32, Catoctin 27
Thomas Johnson 34, Francis Scott Key 6
Tuscarora 40, Dominion-VA 20
Liberty 33, Westminster 0
Musselman-WV 19, North Hagerstown 18
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WEEK #4
Frederick 28, Urbana 20
Linganore 17, Thomas Johnson 0
North Carroll 29, Tuscarora 28
Middletown 14, Century 7
Winters Mill 25, Westminster 7
Boonsboro 28, Francis Scott Key 15
Liberty 29, North Hagerstown 15
Smithsburg 63, Clear Spring 0
Williamsport 13, South Hagerstown 12
Catoctin 31, South Carroll 30
Walkersville 37, Brunswick 8
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WEEK #5
Linganore 42, Middletown 0
North Carroll 14, Century 3
Liberty 34, Catoctin 12
Smithsburg 21, Walkersville 14
Winters Mill 24, North Hagerstown 23
South Hagerstown 48, Clear Spring 8
Frederick 47, Francis Scott Key 14
Urbana 41, Westminster 0
Thomas Johnson 14, Tuscarora 13
Williamsport 14, Brunswick 13
South Carroll 28, Boonsboro 6
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WEEK #6
Thomas Johnson 21, Urbana 0
North Hagerstown 34, Middletown 21
North Carroll 33, Winters Mill 14
Linganore 42, Westminster 7
Frederick 44, South Hagerstown 12
Smithsburg 26, Brunswick 9
Tuscarora 42, Walkersville 28
Catoctin 52, Clear Spring 6
Liberty 34, Francis Scott Key 28 (2 OT)
South Carroll 20, Century 16
Boonsboro 40, Williamsport 7
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WEEK #7
North Hagerstown 30, Walkersville 15
Frederick 40, Middletown 7
Linganore 38, Tuscarora 6
Francis Scott Key 24, South Carroll 20
North Carroll 29, Thomas Johnson 25
Century 35, Westminster 20
Boonsboro 34, Brunswick 10
Catoctin 28, Williamsport 7
Gwynn Park 33, Urbana 26
Smithsburg 26, South Hagerstown 13
MD School for the Deaf 48, Clear Spring 0
Liberty 35, Winters Mill 26
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WEEK #8
Linganore 32, North Carroll 14
Thomas Johnson 32, Westminster 0
Urbana 27, Tuscarora 19
Liberty 40, Williamsport 0
Winters Mill 19, South Carroll 8
Middletown 12, South Hagerstown 0
North Hagerstown 42, Brunswick 12
Boonsboro 55, Clear Spring 0
Frederick 19, Walkersville 6
Francis Scott Key 6, Century 0
Smithsburg 21, Catoctin 6
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WEEK #9
Thomas Johnson 45, Middletown 28
Linganore 35, Francis Scott Key 6
South Carroll 21, Liberty 7
Catoctin 50, Boonsboro 30
Century 20, Winters Mill 19
Frederick 18, North Hagerstown 10
Walkersville 36, South Hagerstown 14
Smithsburg 33, Williamsport 6
Brunswick 40, Clear Spring 0
Tuscarora 26, Westminster 0
Urbana 38, North Carroll 24
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State Playoff Semifinals
1A Semis
Dunbar 38, South Carroll 8
4A Semis
Quince Orchard 24, Thomas Johnson 7
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2007 MVAL Football Standings
(FINAL)
Chesapeake Conference
Team...........Conference....MVAL.....Overall
x-Urbana.................4-1.......4-2........7-3
Linganore...............4-1.......7-2........9-2
Thomas Johnson......3-2.......7-2.......10-3
North Carroll...........3-2.......7-2........8-3
Tuscarora................1-4.......2-7........3-7
Westminster.............0-5......1-9.........1-9
Piedmont Conference
Team...........Conference....MVAL.....Overall
x-Frederick................4-0.......8-2........8-2
North Hagerstown.....3-1......4-3........4-6
Middletown..............2-2......7-4.......7-5
Walkersville..............1-3.......3-7........3-7
South Hagerstown.....0-4......1-8........1-9
Blue Ridge Conference
Team...........Conference....MVAL.....Overall
x-Liberty..............3-1.......7-4.......7-4
F.Scott Key..........3-1.......4-6........4-6
South Carroll........2-2.......6-5.......7-6
Century................1-3.......4-6........4-6
Winters Mill.........1-3.......4-6........4-6
Antietam Conference
Team...........Conference....MVAL.....Overall
x-Smithsburg............4-1......7-1........9-2
x-Boonsboro.............4-1......5-2........7-4
x-Catoctin.................4-1......5-3........6-5
Williamsport.............2-3......3-5........4-6
Brunswick.................1-4......2-7........2-8
Clear Spring..............0-5......0-6........0-10
x-conference champions or co-champions
2007 MVAL Football Power Poll
(FINAL)
1. Thomas Johnson (10-3)
2. Linganore (9-2)
3. Urbana (7-4)
4. North Carroll (8-3)
5. Frederick (8-2)
6. Middletown (7-5)
7. South Carroll (7-6)
8. Liberty (7-4)
9. Smithsburg (9-2)
10. Boonsboro (7-4)
11. Tuscarora (4-6)
12. Winters Mill (4-6)
13. North Hagerstown (4-6)
14. Francis Scott Key (4-6)
15. Catoctin (6-6)
16. Century (4-6)
17. Walkersville (3-7)
18. Williamsport (4-6)
19. Brunswick (2-8)
20. Westminster (1-9)
21. South Hagerstown (1-9)
22. Clear Spring (0-10)
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Photo by Bill Ryan, The Gazette
South Carroll’s Greg Tellish churns out extra yards as Catoctin’s Sean Mayer closes in during Friday night’s game.
Regional Playoff Finals
1A North
South Carroll 7, Catoctin 6
2A West
Clarksburg 33, Middletown 7
4A North
Thomas Johnson 35, Perry Hall 3
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MVAL player commitments
Jeff Braun-DL-Winters Mill; West Virginia University (WV)
Steven Chase-TE-Thomas Johnson; Wake Forest University (NC)
Terence Kerns-RB-Thomas Johnson; West Virginia University (WV)
John Bassler-OL-Francis Scott Key; West Virginia University (WV)
John Kelly-QB-Tuscarora; Penn State University (PA)
Erik Saylor-DL-Urbana; Old Dominion University (VA)
Imani Chatman-LB-Urbana; University of Buffalo (NY)
C.J. Thomas-WR-Linganore; William and Mary University (VA)
Alex Cornish-LB-Frederick; Columbia University (NY)
Vinnie Ahearn-DB-Frederick; Salisbury University (MD)
Colin Bass-DL-Thomas Johnson; Towson University (MD)
Todd Cox-LB-Linganore; Towson University (MD)
Ryan McLean-RB-Boonsboro; Towson University (MD)
Mike MacFee-North Carroll; Monmouth University (NJ)
Sam Issermoyer-Liberty; Campbell University (NC)
Phil Sheppard-North Carroll; Salisbury University (MD)
Corey Hunt-RB/DB-Thomas Johnson; Shippensburg University (PA)
D.J. Doyle-QB/DB-Catoctin; Sacred Heart (CT)
Chris Patton-RB/DB-Urbana; Shepherd University (WV)
Colton Weaver-QB-Liberty; Franklin & Marshall University (PA)
Greg Tellish-RB-South Carroll; Susquehanna University (PA)
Ryan Cranford-DB/WR-Tuscarora; Frostburg State University (MD)
Billy Stup-LB-Tuscarora; Towson University (MD)
Kyle Malcolm-OL-North Hagerstown; Salisbury University (MD)
Alan Walker-LB-North Hagerstown; Juniata College (PA)
Cody Redifer-North Carroll; Frostburg State University (MD)
Alvaro Granda-Liberty; Frostburg State University (MD)
James White-Thomas Johnson; Juniata College (PA)
Kevin Kocsis-Smithsburg; Frostburg State University (MD)
Stevie Pryor-OL-Tuscarora; Frostburg State University (MD)
Mike Knox-DE-Liberty; Frostburg State University (MD)
John McHale-OLB-Liberty; Frostburg State University (MD)
David Thomas-RB-FSK; Frostburg State University (MD)
Randy Hart-OL-Williamsport; Frostburg State University (MD)
Dustin Gilbert-DL-Walkersville; Frostburg State University (MD)
Russell Collins-DE-Frederick; Frostburg State University (MD)
Jake Guillen-DB-Frederick; Albright College (PA)
Kevin Fisher-RB-Frederick; Williamson (PA)
Stephan Mitchell-North Carroll; Shepherd University (WV)
Larry Bradley-Catoctin; McDaniel College (MD)
to add a player to the list, please send info to: foltzie@aol.com
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Chasing History
Most Passing Yards, Overall Season:
1. 3335, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2005
2. 2451, T.J. Swanson-South Carroll, 2003
3. 2396, Ben Love-Winters Mill, 2007
4. 2099, Colton Weaver-Liberty, 2006
5. 2007, Damien Wallace-Frederick, 2006
6. 1945, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2004
7. 1904, Matt Anuszewski-Liberty, 2004
8. 1882, Matt Main-Middletown, 1996
9. 1823, Cory Rhodes-Frederick, 2004
10. 1750, Mike Murray-Urbana, 2004
10. 1750, Andre April-Frederick, 2007
12. 1749, Stefan Mitchell-North Carroll, 2007
Most Passing Yards, Regular Season:
1. 2685, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2005
2. 2396, Ben Love-Winters Mill, 2007
3. 2099, Colton Weaver-Liberty, 2006
4. 2007, Damien Wallace-Frederick, 2006
5. 1945, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2004
6. 1906, T.J. Swanson-South Carroll, 2003
7. 1904, Matt Anuszewski-Liberty, 2004
8. 1750, Andre April-Frederick, 2007
9. 1749, Stefan Mitchell-North Carroll, 2007
9. 1704, Mike Murray-Urbana, 2004
Most Passing TD's, Overall Season:
1. 38, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2005
2. 28, T.J. Swanson-South Carroll, 2003
3. 26, Alex Phelps-Linganore, 2007
4. 23, J.P. Filchock-Walkersville, 1988
4. 23, Mike Murray-Urbana, 2005
6. 22, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2004
6. 22, Mike Murray-Urbana, 2004
8. 21, Ben Love-Winters Mill, 2007
9. 20, Dana Schrodel-Walkersville, 1992
9. 20, Damien Wallace-Frederick, 2006
Most Passing TD's, Regular Season:
1. 30, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2005
2. 26, Alex Phelps-Linganore, 2007
3. 22, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2004
3. 22, Mike Murray-Urbana, 2004
5. 21, T.J. Swanson-South Carroll, 2003
5. 21, Ben Love-Winters Mill, 2007
Most Passing Completions, Overall Season:
1. 187, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2005
2. 171, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2004
3. 152, Colton Weaver-Liberty, 2006
4. 150, T.J. Swanson-South Carroll, 2003
4. 150, Nick Brunner-Westminster, 2006
6. 149, Ben Love-Winters Mill, 2007
7. 138, Matt Anuszewski-Liberty, 2004
8. 135, Damien Wallace-Frederick, 2006
9. 124, Matt Anuszewski-Liberty, 2003
10. 122, Matt Main-Middletown, 1996
Most Passing Completions, Regular Season:
1. 171, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2004
2. 152, Colton Weaver-Liberty, 2006
3. 150, Nick Brunner-Westminster, 2006
4. 140, Kevin Clancy-Westminster, 2005
5. 138, Matt Anuszewski-Liberty, 2004
6. 137, Ben Love-Winters Mill, 2007
7. 135, Damien Wallace-Frederick, 2006
8. 124, Matt Anuszewski-Liberty, 2003
9. 121, Chad Umbel-Catoctin, 1990
10. 119, Paul Greenwood-Brunswick, 1997
Most Receiving Yards, Overall Season:
1. 1041, Ryan Payne-Westminster, 2005
2. 981, Rashad Blackwell-Winters Mill, 2007
3. 813, Tony Ware-North Hagerstown, 1991
4. 804, Ryan Finch-Westminster, 2005
5. 781, C.J. Thomas-Linganore, 2007
5. 779, Jared Heffler-Liberty, 2006
6. 704, Jarell Hasan-North Hagerstown, 2006
Most Receiving Yards, Regular Season:
1. 981, Rashad Blackwell-Winters Mill, 2007
2. 813, Tony Ware-North Hagerstown, 1991
3. 804, Ryan Payne-Westminster, 2005
4. 781, C.J. Thomas-Linganore, 2007
4. 779, Jared Heffler-Liberty, 2006
5. 750, Ricky Berard-Urbana, 2004
6. 736, Mitchell Weedon-Tuscarora, 2004
Most Receiving TD's, Overall Season:
1. 18, C.J. Thomas-Linganore, 2007
2. 13, Jarell Hasan-North Hagerstown, 2006
3. 12, Quielan Gantt-North Hagerstown, 2004
4. 10, Nathan Foltz-Middletown, 1994
4. 10, Ryan Payne-Westminster, 2005
4. 10, Jared Heffler-Liberty, 2006
Most Receiving TD's, Regular Season:
1. 18, C.J. Thomas-Linganore, 2007
2. 12, Quielan Gantt-North Hagerstown, 2004
3. 11, Jarell Hasan-North Hagerstown, 2006
Most Receptions, Overall Season:
1. 52, Dustin Walters-Liberty, 2004
2. 49, Matt Bergbauer-Westminster, 2004
3. 47, Jay Leonard-Westminster, 2004
3. 47, Ryan Miller-Westminster, 2006
5. 46, Bennett-Linganore, 1985
5. 46, Rashad Blackwell-Winters Mill, 2007
7. 44, C.J. Thomas-Linganore, 2007
7. 44, Brian Dugan-Catoctin, 1990
7. 44, Jared Heffler-Liberty, 2006
10. 42, Kam Christensen-Middletown, 1995 **no playoffs**
11. 41, Tony Ware-North Hagerstown, 1991
12. 40, Pat McCormick-Liberty, 2003
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